Intergenerational Transmission of Traditional Medical Knowledge: Challenges and Opportunities in Indigenous Communities

Abstract

The intergenerational transmission of traditional medical knowledge (TMK) within indigenous communities represents a critical intersection of cultural preservation, healthcare delivery, and intellectual property rights. This paper examines the mechanisms, challenges, and opportunities associated with the transfer of traditional healing practices across generations in indigenous populations worldwide. Through analysis of contemporary research and case studies, this study identifies key factors threatening TMK continuity, including globalization, language loss, migration patterns, and the erosion of traditional social structures. Simultaneously, the research explores emerging opportunities such as digital documentation initiatives, collaborative ethnobotanical research, and policy frameworks supporting indigenous knowledge systems. The findings reveal that successful TMK transmission requires multifaceted approaches combining traditional pedagogical methods with modern preservation technologies, while maintaining community sovereignty over knowledge systems. This research contributes to ongoing discussions about biocultural diversity conservation and provides recommendations for stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and indigenous community leaders seeking to strengthen traditional knowledge transmission pathways.